By Rowan Forster
As Pakenham descended into a plume of smoke yesterday, local firefighters were battling to extinguish the source – a raging bushfire in Grantville.
Brigades from Pakenham, Upper Beaconsfield and Kooweerup were among those to make the trek to the Bass Coast.
An almost 4000 hectare inferno has engulfed much of the community, threatening homes and habitats.
On Monday, the Upper Beaconsfield Fire Brigade still had eight volunteers fighting the blaze.
A spokesperson for the Upper Beaconsfield CFA said the volunteers were playing a vital role in controlling the fires.
“Our tanker and slip on appliances have been tasked on strike teams and eight of our local members are attending the Grantville fire complex this evening providing asset protection and containment along with administrative and logistical support,” a statement read.
“We wish those members well and pray that they all stay safe.
‘They are working hard alongside many personnel in the extreme heat.
“Another crew is on standby if they are needed and of course we still have two more appliances ready for anything local. “
It comes as authorities flag air quality concerns over large amounts of smoke.
Asthmatics and those with respiratory conditions are urged to avoid the outdoors if possible, as the haze begins to clear.
